Abstract

This paper is a humble attempt to critically explore the psychological dimensions of R.K. Narayan’s The Man-Eater of Malgudi. The novel delves into the inner lives of Nataraj and Vasu, using Freudian concepts of the Id, Ego, and Superego to highlight how their imbalance can lead to personal and societal collapse. Through Nataraj’s evolution from a passive printer to a morally awakened individual, the narrative portrays psychological growth and ethical awakening. In contrast, Vasu represents a destructive force driven by an unchecked Id, embodying violence, selfishness, and alienation. The tension between Nataraj and Vasu illustrates broader human struggles involving power, control, and conscience. The role of Rangi and the collective response of the Malgudi community reveal social psychological patterns, emphasizing the importance of communal harmony. Vasu, as the symbolic “Man-Eater,” becomes a metaphor for unchecked egoism. Ultimately, the novel offers a profound commentary on human morality, psychological conflict, and the resilience of the human spirit.